Kentucky vs Kansas: Three Reasons the Wildcats Can Take Down the Jayhawks
Kentucky basketball has a massive test ahead of them in Chicago.
The No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks look unstoppable through their first two games of action, fueled by a high-octane offense with a new centerpiece down low - one Kentucky is familiar with in Hunter Dickinson.
Considering Kentucky is heading into the game short-handed, this one will be difficult. Aaron Bradshaw, Ugonna Onyenso and Zvonimir Ivisic won't be available. Adou Theiro may not be fully ready either after entering concussion protocol following the season opener.
It's going to be tough. But it's still possible.
Here are three reasons Kentucky can beat Kansas on Tuesday.
Aggressive guard play
While Kentucky may not have the most elite shooters surrounding Antonio Reeves, it's agreed upon that all four guards in the Wildcats' backcourt are aggressive, fast and explosive on both ends of the floor.
Kentucky plays with effort. Wagner, Dillingham, Reeves and Sheppard are all capable of individually having great performances, but as a collective they can be dominant.
They'll need to be against KU.
Taking care of the basketball
Kentucky ranks second nationally in both turnover percentage (6.6%) and steal percentage (2.2%). They've taken great care of the basketball through two contests and have the chance to really value their possessions against the Jayhawks. UK can't afford to slip up and give this Kansas offense more opportunities to score.
Dickinson, KU offense can't be this efficient forever
The Jayhawks currently have the No. 1 effective field goal percentage in the nation - a whopping 72.0% through two games. They're shooting 46.9% from three (11th nationally) and 73.0% from inside the arc (3rd).
Those are insane numbers that will eventually go lower. Considering their two opponents have been North Carolina Central and Manhattan - two teams that rank 302nd and 324th in KenPom - Kentucky should be able to hold them to less impressive numbers.
Hunter Dickinson has come out of the gates playing like a POTY candidate. Even despite Kentucky's lack of height, he can't be perfect forever.
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